EEES Unit 3
Biodiversity and its Conservation

1. Introduction to Biodiversity

Biodiversity refers to the variety and variability of living organisms on Earth. It includes plants, animals, microorganisms and different ecosystems.

• It maintains ecological balance.
• It provides food, medicine and raw materials.
• It supports ecosystem services.
• It is essential for human survival and sustainable development.

2. Types of Biodiversity

• Genetic Diversity: Variation of genes within a species. Example: different varieties of rice.
• Species Diversity: Variety of species present in an ecosystem. Example: birds, animals and plants in a forest.
• Ecosystem Diversity: Variety of ecosystems in a region. Example: forests, deserts, oceans and grasslands.

3. Bio-Geographical Classification of India

India has different bio-geographical zones because of varied climate, landforms, rainfall and geographical conditions.

• Himalayan Region
• Desert Region
• Western Ghats
• Deccan Plateau
• Coastal Region
• North-East Region

4. Values of Biodiversity

• Consumptive Use Value: Direct use like food, fuel and medicines.
• Productive Use Value: Commercial products like timber, silk and wool.
• Social Value: Related to culture, traditions and society.
• Ethical Value: Every species has the right to exist.
• Aesthetic Value: Beauty of nature and recreational importance.
• Option Value: Future possible use of biodiversity.

5. Biodiversity at Global, National and Local Levels

• Global Level: Biodiversity present across the world.
• National Level: Biodiversity within a country.
• Local Level: Biodiversity within local ecosystems like ponds, forests or grasslands.

6. India as a Mega-Diversity Nation

India is called a mega-diversity nation because it has rich biodiversity, wide climatic variation and a large number of endemic species.

• India contains about 8% of world biodiversity.
• It has forests, wetlands, mountains and marine ecosystems.
• It has rich flora and fauna.
• It has many endemic and endangered species.

7. Biodiversity Hotspots in India

Biodiversity hotspots are areas with very high biodiversity and high threat of destruction.

• Western Ghats
• Eastern Himalayas
• Indo-Burma Region
• Sundaland

8. Threats to Biodiversity

• Habitat Loss: Destruction of forests and natural habitats.
• Poaching: Illegal hunting of wildlife.
• Pollution: Air, water and soil pollution damage organisms.
• Climate Change: Changes natural environmental conditions.
• Man-Wildlife Conflict: Conflict due to expansion of human settlements.

9. Endangered and Endemic Species of India

Endangered Species: Species facing high risk of extinction.

• Bengal Tiger
• Asiatic Lion
• Indian Elephant
• Red Panda

Endemic Species: Species found only in a particular region.

• Nilgiri Tahr
• Lion-tailed Macaque

10. Conservation of Biodiversity

Conservation means protection, preservation and proper management of biodiversity.

• Protects endangered species.
• Maintains ecological balance.
• Conserves natural resources.
• Supports sustainable development.

11. In-Situ Conservation

In-situ conservation means protection of species in their natural habitat.

• National Parks
• Wildlife Sanctuaries
• Biosphere Reserves

Examples: Gir National Park, Kaziranga National Park.

12. Ex-Situ Conservation

Ex-situ conservation means protection of species outside their natural habitat.

• Zoos
• Botanical Gardens
• Seed Banks
• Gene Banks

Examples: Botanical Garden Kolkata, National Gene Bank.

1. Explain the types and values of biodiversity.
2. Explain biodiversity hotspots and India as a mega-diversity nation.
3. Explain threats to biodiversity and methods for biodiversity conservation.
4. Explain in-situ and ex-situ conservation of biodiversity.
5. Explain endangered and endemic species of India.
6. Discuss biodiversity at global, national and local levels.
7. Explain bio-geographical classification of India.
8. Explain conservation and management of biodiversity.
9. Describe the role of India in global biodiversity conservation.
10. Discuss habitat loss and poaching of wildlife.

Most Repeated Questions

• What is biodiversity? Discuss different kinds of biodiversity.
• Why is India called a mega biodiversity nation?
• Explain biodiversity hotspots in India.
• Describe the role of India in global biodiversity conservation.
• Explain conservation and management of biodiversity.
• Explain threats to biodiversity.
• Explain man-wildlife conflict.
• Explain endangered and endemic species of India.

Topic Importance Analysis

• First prepare Types of Biodiversity and Values of Biodiversity.
• Then prepare India as Mega-Diversity Nation and Biodiversity Hotspots.
• For 14 marks, prepare Threats + Conservation Methods together.
• Do not skip In-Situ and Ex-Situ Conservation.
• Prepare examples of endangered and endemic species for short notes.